Silicon dioxide, commonly known as silica, is a chemical compound with the formula SiO₂. It is one of the most abundant and versatile materials on Earth, occurring naturally in various mineral forms as well as being produced synthetically for industrial use.
Silica finds extensive applications across a wide range of industries — from structural materials and industrial polymers to microelectronics and food industry components. It is also widely used in the glass and ceramics industries, as well as in adhesives, conveyor and transmission belts, and various allied sectors.